Lisbon and Setubal

Two distinct but memorable places to visit and legacy of DMET in the region

By Sunil Anand Roy | Roll Number 5019 | Class of 2001

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Irecently had the chance to dry dock a vessel at Lisnave shipyard, Setubal, Portugal and it will remain a memorable experience for the dying loyalty of the local staff at Lisnave to their town of Setubal. I must have met a 100 people, who vouched for the exclusive seafood and wine on offer in Setubal and they coerced me to try these, an offer I could hardly refuse . The happy and enthusiastic people spread joy around.

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300 years B.C. The castle has monuments dating back to the 8th – 9th century. Hermenegildo de Brito Capelo, known for his explorations of Africa, was born within the castle located in the village in Palmela.

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Setubal is a small town roughly 40 Kms from Lisnave, is an industrial town, and a major commercial fishing centre, hence the seafood is fresh, mostly right from sea the same day. The town also boasts an extensive history and seafaring heritage. The forte de Sao Filipe , a heavily fortified castle that once guarded the Sado Estuary and provides wonderful views over the region.

The castle of Palmela is located around 10 Kms north of Setubal in Palmela, a city where the early inhabitants date back to as early as

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The project manager, Mr. Ricardo, responsible for my vessel’s docking, kept talking about the fish market “The Marcado do Livramento” which unfortunately I could not visit, but learnt that it is the finest covered market in Portugal, with a vast array of stalls selling freshly caught fish, fruit and veg, as well as local handicrafts. A lively and chaotic experience of authentic Portugal and a must visit.

Lisbon or Lisboa in Portugal – is the capital of Portugal – a hilly city located on the coast has some of the best architectural monuments in the region. The city has the heart of a major city of the world and the street was full of beautiful people and tourists till early morning. Indeed, the city never seemed to be sleeping. The tourists could be seen queuing up at the multiple museums and historical monuments early in the morning well before they were open. Vasco Da Gama set sail from Lisbon on 8th July 1497 and is credited for finding India to Europeans and establishing the trade route between India and Portugal or Europe.

Jeronimo’s Monastery – Tomb of some famous scholars and Kings of Portugal are located, including that of Vasco da Gama.

Padrao dos Descobrimentos (Monument to the discoveries) is in the Belem district, close to the Jeronimo’s Monastery. Together with the Tower of Belem , these monuments are associated with the rich maritime history of Portugal and their explorers.

Castelo de Sao Jorge is located right next to the centre of the city, on top of a hill overlooking the city and bay, providing a panoramic view of the entire city. It is a short 20-30 mins walk uphill. There are auto rickshaws that provide tours of the city as well as public buses and trams that cater to the castle from downtown. The tram is worth a ride, and faster than any other service, looks as woody as Kolkata trams but vibrant and brightly coloured.

Legacy of DMET in Setubal: The best part of the tour was meeting 76-year-old Mr. Bandeira, who works as Public Relations Director at Lisnave shipyard. Knowing that I am from DMET, he took me for dinner, spoke at length about his wonderful memory with our very own, Mr. Syed. Talking about this made Mr. Bandeira tearful and heavily nostalgic.

DMETians do leave their impression that lasts a long time. Mr. Bandeira, indeed must have asked me to pass his regards to Mr. Syed several times. Mr. Syed is a DMET alumni from Class of 1969. He has been a mentor and a source of encouragement to many of the young Technical Superintendents, who joined ESM with no experience. ▄

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